Joseph Paul “Joe” Abt, 74, of Sainte Genevieve, passed away on June 4, 2026.
He was born on April 3, 1952, to the late Gerald Francis Abt and Anna May (Wolk) Abt.
Most people knew him as “Joe” or “Joey.” He was a 1971 graduate of Ste. Genevieve High School. In 1973, he began working at Mississippi Lime, where he dedicated 40 years of service.
Joe was truly a jack of all trades and master of none. He enjoyed wine making, hunting, farming, concrete work, building things with his hands, and camping. He was a gifted storyteller who never met a stranger and was known for his positive outlook on life and the smile he always wore. Above all, he cherished time spent with his wife, children, and especially his grandchildren.
He was a longtime member of St. Joseph Parish, Ste. Genevieve Elks Club, Ste. Genevieve Eagles Club, Knights of Columbus Bloomsdale 1848 and the Zell Fire Department in Zell, Missouri. He was also a member and past commander of the Sons of the American Legion Post 253 Festus. Joe devoted many years to fundraising efforts for both the fire department and the American Legion, where he formed countless friendships that lasted a lifetime.
Joe will be forever remembered by his loving wife of 53 years, Diane Marie (Mueller) Abt; his children, Matthew (Anne) Abt, Wade Abt, and Jodie (Michael) Hintze; his grandchildren, Audrey and Carter Abt; his siblings, Wayne (Rhonda) Abt and Joyce (Albert) Gegg; his sisters-in-laws, Eileen (Gerald) Abt, Anita (Michael) Kertz, and Lisa (Kevin) Graves; his brother-in-law, Dale Mueller; as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald Francis Abt and Anna May (Wolk) Abt, and his brother, Gerald Edward Abt.
Joe’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family and community will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Visitation will be at Basler Funeral Home in Sainte Genevieve, MO on Thursday, June 11, 2026 from 4:00 pm till 8:00 pm and Friday June 12, 2026 from 8:00 am till 9:30 am.
Service will be at St. Joseph Church, Zell, MO on Friday, June 12, 2026 at 10:00 am.
Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery in Zell, MO
Memorials can be made to Alzheimer’s Association
Online condolences can be left at www.baslerfuneralhome.com